The Promise of His Nearness in Brokenness

Written by: Maddie Joy Fischer

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” Psalm 34:18

I’ve found in my own life that it is in moments and seasons of brokenness that I am able to sense the nearness of the Lord most undeniably. While I wouldn’t wish heartbreak on anyone, I am so thankful for the promise of His presence that strengthens and sustains us through the most unbearable moments of life on this side of heaven. Not only that, but for a God who wastes nothing. While painful, so much purpose can be produced as a result of surrendering to Jesus in the broken places of our stories. 

When experiencing brokenness, keep the promise of His nearness continually before you. Proclaim it out loud. Write it out and put it where you can see it. Because He is with you, there is hope to hold onto even in your lowest moments. You may feel lonely, but you are never alone. In His presence, there is great joy to be experienced even in deep sorrow. 

While you wait for rescue, dare to praise Him in the midst of the brokenness. Worship despite your feelings and circumstances. Declare His goodness on the mountaintop, in the lowest valley, and every step in between. This is how dependence grows. This is how roots of faith grow deep. These are the gifts that heartbreak provides. 

Expect His faithfulness. Trust confidently that a difficult time in your life does not mean that God has failed, but simply that you are living a human experience. His word doesn’t promise a life without heartbreak, but it does promise His nearness, redemption, and ability to work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This means that even on your hardest day, you are covered by the unfailing faithfulness of Jesus. Tether your life to faith, hope, and trust in this truth. Let it be an anchor. 

Lastly, prepare to tell your story in due time. You are created to reveal His glory and be a mouthpiece of His goodness. Take note of the moments you sense His goodness and nearness. Listen closely to what He is speaking. Be obedient even when it doesn’t make sense. Pray in advance for those who will benefit from the testimony of the work the Lord is doing in you through difficult times. 

I can’t reveal what healing will look like in your story, I can assure you that He will not waste your brokenness. I can tell you with confidence that he is near. There is no greater hope in heartbreak than His presence.